Apparatus for protecting and dispensing paper products

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for protecting and dispensing sheet material comprised of a semi-flexible sheet is disclosed. The semi-flexible sheet may be radially collapsed into a cylindrical shape to cover and protect a roll of sheet material. The semi-flexible sheet comprises a leading end and a distal end. When the semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed over the roll of sheet material, the leading end covers the distal end and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet creating a gap, the sheet may be positioned in the gap created and allows the sheet material to pass between the leading end and the distal end for dispensing. The apparatus may include a first end cap operatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet and located at the first side edge and a second end cap operatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet and located at the second side edge.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.C. §119

This Non-Provisional Patent Application claims priority toNon-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 14/749,023 titled “Apparatusfor Protecting and Dispensing Paper Products” filed Jun. 24, 2015,expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Paper products and other paper product have been manufactured to bestored and dispensed in a rolled form. Typically, disposable paperproducts are wrapped in a roll form around a tube. In this way,depending on the amount of product wrapped around the roll, the variousrolls may come in a variety of sizes, including length andcircumference, depending on the paper product being dispensed, such astoilet paper, paper towels, or the like. Rolls allow for a compactpackaging of long lengths of the paper products and dispensing of thesame. However, the rolled design does not provide protection to thepaper product on the roll. The material, especially the outer layer, isexposed to the elements, including water, which may hinder theperformance of the paper product. As such, there exists a need fordeveloping a paper product dispenser that provides adequate protectionto the paper product.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary of several embodiments ofthe invention relating to an apparatus for protecting and dispensingpaper product and namely disposable paper products.

Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus comprisingsemi-flexible sheet of plastic material that is capable of beingradially collapses into a cylindrical shape around a roll of disposablepaper products. The semi-flexible plastic sheet includes at least aleading end, a distal end, a first side edge, and a second side edge. Asthe semi-flexible plastic sheet radially collapses into the cylindricalshape of the roll comprising the paper product, the leading end overlaysthe distal end and at least a portion of the semi-flexible sheet. Theoverlaid leading end and the distal end form a small slit or gap betweentwo faces of the semi-flexible sheet that allows the paper products fromthe roll to be dispensed through the gap.

The ability for the apparatus to radially collapse upon the paperproduct on the roll allows the apparatus to continue to compress as thepaper product is used, always providing adequate pressure to andremaining in contact with the paper product on the roll. As such,providing a protective apparatus for the paper product.

In other embodiments, the invention might further include a first endcap operatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet and located at thefirst side edge, wherein the first end cap covers at least a portion ofthe roll of sheet material, and a second end cap operatively connectedto the semi-flexible sheet and located at the second side edge, whereinthe second end cap covers at least a portion of the roll of sheetmaterial.

In some embodiments, the invention comprises an apparatus for protectingand dispensing sheet material, the apparatus comprising a semi-flexiblesheet having: a leading end and a distal end, wherein the semi-flexiblesheet is partially tapered in width from the leading end to the distalend; a first side edge and a second side edge, wherein the first sideedge and the second side edge comprise attachment means adjacent to theleading end for releasably attaching a portion of the semi-flexiblesheet, wherein the semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsible upon aroll of sheet material such that the first side edge and the second sideedge form a cylindrical shape about the roll of sheet material, whereinupon radially collapsing upon the roll of sheet material the leading endoverlays the distal end and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet suchthat a portion of the roll of sheet material is compressed between theoverlaid leading end and distal end.

In some embodiments, the attachment means comprises a J shaped clip,wherein one clip is connected to the first side edge proximate to theleading end and a second clip is connected to the second side edgeproximate to the leading end, wherein the clips are directed inwardtowards the semi-flexible sheet to receive and releasably attached thefirst side edge and the second side edge proximate to the distal end.

In some embodiments, a height of the leading end of the semi-flexiblesheet is at least equal to or greater than a height of the roll of sheetmaterial, and wherein the height of the distal end is at least equal toor less than the height of the leading end.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet further comprises at afirst end cover attached perpendicularly to the first side edge and asecond end cover attached perpendicularly to the second side edge,wherein the first and second end cover covers at least a portion of anend of a roll of sheet material, wherein the first and second end covercomprises angled spaces configured to prevent the end cover from bindingwhen the semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet further comprises ribs thatare positioned on at least one surface of the semi-flexible sheet,wherein the ribs are positioned to inhibit axial travel of the roll ofsheet material and allow the sheet material to be dispensed.

In some embodiments, the length of the semi-flexible sheet from thedistal end to the leading end is greater than a circumference of theroll of sheet material.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet comprises a plasticmaterial.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet further comprises a notchlocated on the leading end, wherein the notch allows for grasping of thesheet material compressed between the overlay created by the leading endand the distal end, and wherein when the semi-flexible sheet is radiallycollapsed, the notch reveals the sheet material.

In some embodiments, the leading end of the semi-flexible sheet furthercomprises a gripping surface directed towards the sheet material whenthe semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed, wherein the grippingsurface is a series of serrations. In some embodiments, the grippingsurface allows passage of the sheet material past the gripping edge whenforce is applied to the sheet material perpendicular to a front surfaceof the leading end, and wherein the gripping surface grips the sheetmaterial when force is applied to the sheet material perpendicular tothe leading end.

In some embodiments, the sheet material is a disposable paper product.

In some embodiments, the apparatus provides environmental protection tothe roll of sheet material, wherein environmental protection comprisesat least moisture protection, dust protection, and abrasion protection.

In other embodiments the first end cap further comprises an apertureconcentrically located on the first end cap, wherein a diameter of theaperture permits passage of a holder for the roll of sheet material.

The features, functions, and advantages that have been discussed may beachieved independently in various embodiments of the present inventionor may be combined with yet other embodiments, further details of whichcan be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated into the specification toassist in explaining the present inventions. The drawings illustratepreferred and alternative examples of how the inventions can be made andused and are not to be construed as limiting the inventions to onlythose examples illustrated and described. The various advantages andfeatures of the present inventions will be apparent from a considerationof the drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a side view of an embodiment of the apparatus including paperproduct, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1C is a top view of the apparatus, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a front view of the apparatus with clips, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2B is an expanded end view of the clips of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2C is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2D is an expended view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2E is an expended view of the attachment mechanism of theapparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2F is an expanded view of the attachment mechanism of theapparatus, in accordance with one embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flattened front view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is an end view of an embodiment of the apparatus, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is an expanded cross sectional view of an embodiment of theapparatus comprising a gripping surface, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4C is an expanded perspective view of the gripping surface of theapparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6A is perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the apparatuscomprising ribs, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8B is an expanded view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder, in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder, in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 10A is an exploded view of an embodiment of the apparatus includingend caps, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10B is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the end cap ofthe apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10C is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the end cap ofthe apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10D is a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the end cap ofthe apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10E is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10F is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10G is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus, inaccordance with one embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present inventions are described in the following by referring todrawings of examples of how the inventions can be made and used. Inthese drawings, reference characters are used throughout to indicatelike or corresponding parts. The embodiments shown are described hereinare exemplary. Many details that are well known in the art are neithershown nor described.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fullyhereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some,but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, theinvention may be embodied in many different forms and should not beconstrued as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, theseembodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicablelegal requirements. Like numbers refer to elements throughout. Wherepossible, any terms expressed in the singular form herein are meant toalso include the plural form and vice versa, unless explicitly statedotherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “a” and/or “an” shall mean“one or more,” even though the phrase “one or more” is also used herein.Furthermore, when it is said herein that something is “based on”something else, it may be based on one or more other things as well. Inother words, unless expressly indicated otherwise, as used herein “basedon” means “based at least in part on” or “based at least partially on.”Furthermore, the term paper products may include one or more other typesof sheet material, such as cloth, steal, cardboard, or the like.

While the foregoing disclosure discusses illustrative embodiments, itshould be noted that various changes and modifications could be madeherein without departing from the scope of the described aspects and/orembodiments as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, althoughelements of the described aspects and/or embodiments may be described orclaimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless limitation tothe singular is explicitly stated. Additionally, all or a portion of anyembodiment may be utilized with all or a portion of any otherembodiment, unless stated otherwise.

Embodiments of the invention relate to methods and apparatuses forprotecting and dispensing a roll of sheeted material, namely disposablepaper product material.

The invention may hold any type of rolled paper product where the paperproduct is formed in a cylindrical roll or other shape. Typically, theroll of paper product comprises a core (e.g. a cardboard roll) uponwhich the paper product is wound. The core may be a cylinder with twoopen ends. The paper product may consist of, but is not limited to,paper products, fabric, sheet metal, sheet composites, other sheet typematerial, and the like. For simplicity, herein the term “paper product”may include one or more of the above paper products. The roll of paperproduct may have a large diameter when full and a continually decreasingdiameter upon use of the paper product. As such, as material isdispensed from the roll of paper product, the diameter of the rollreduces. Additionally, the roll of paper product may also have a givenheight that remains consistent regardless of the capacity of the roll.However, the height may change depending on the type of paper product onthe roll, such as paper towels, toilet paper, napkins, drawing paper,cardboard, steel rolls, or the like.

FIG. 1A illustrates a prospective view of the apparatus 100. Theapparatus includes a semi-flexible sheet 102. The semi-flexible sheet102 is generally made of a semi-ridged plastic type material. In someembodiments, the semi-flexible sheet 201 may be made with a plurality ofmaterials, such as plastic, composite material, metal, or combinationthereof. In some embodiments, when the semi-flexible sheet 102 is madeof plastic, the plastic may be a polyvinyl chloride.

The semi-flexible sheet 102 comprises a leading end 106, a distal end108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it is capable of beingradially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or other shape over a rollof paper product 200. As illustrated, the roll of paper product 200includes an inner core 204. In this way, the semi-flexible sheet 102provides a spring like force upon radially collapsing that provides aninward tension onto the roll of paper product 200. Thus, completelysurrounding the sides of the paper product and providing protection tothe paper products. When the semi-flexible sheet 102 is radiallycollapsed into a cylindrical shape, the leading end 106 overlays thedistal end 108 and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The leadingend 106, the distal end 108, and the portion of the semi-flexible sheet102 form a gap or slit longitudinally along the edge, that allows asingle sheet or a portion of a single sheet of the paper product 202 tobe positioned between the leading end and the distal end 108. In thisway, allowing the paper product to be dispended from the apparatus.

In some embodiments, the corners formed by the first side edge 110, thesecond side edge 112, the leading end 106, and the distal end 108 may berounded.

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the apparatus 101. As illustrated inFIG. 1B, the semi-flexible sheet 102 with a leading end 106, a distalend 108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112 isillustrated. The semi-flexible sheet 102, as shown, is radiallycollapsed onto a roll of paper product 200. As illustrated, thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is completely surrounding the sides of the paperproduct and providing protection to the paper products. As illustratedin FIG. 1B, when the semi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed intoa cylindrical shape, the leading end 106 overlays the distal end 108 anda portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The leading end 106, thedistal end 108, and the portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 form agap or slit longitudinally along the edge, that allows a single sheet ora portion of a single sheet of the paper product 202 to be positionedbetween the leading end and the distal end 108. In this way, allowingthe paper product to be dispended from the apparatus.

FIG. 1C illustrates a top view of the apparatus 103. As illustrated inFIG. 1C the semi-flexible sheet 102 is formed so that it radiallycollapses to form a cylindrical shape around the paper product 200 withinner core 204. As such, the first side edge 110 and the second sideedge 112 forming a shape around the paper product 200. When thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed into a cylindrical shape,the leading end 106 overlays the distal end 108 and a portion of thesemi-flexible sheet 102. The leading end 106, the distal end 108, andthe portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 form a gap or slitlongitudinally along the edge, that allows a single sheet or a portionof a single sheet of the paper product 202 to be positioned between theleading end and the distal end 108. As illustrated in FIG. 1C the top ofthe paper product 200 and inner core 204 are exposed. As such, theapparatus is covering the sides of the paper product 200 in thisembodiment.

An operator may manipulate the semi-flexible sheet 102 to place a rollof paper product 200 within the cylindrical shape of the semi-flexiblesheet 102. In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet 102 may collapseonto the roll of sheeted material or paper product 200 such that aninner surface of the cylindrical shape formed by the semi-flexible sheet102 exerts pressure on the roll of paper product 200. In someembodiments, the inner diameter of the cylindrical shape formed by thesemi-flexible sheet 102 when fully radially collapsed is larger than thediameter of the inner core 204 of the roll of the paper product 200.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet 102 may be designed basedon the roll of paper product 200. As such, the measurements of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 may be based on the roll of paper products 200the semi-flexible sheet 102 is being designed to protect. In otherembodiments, the material used to make the semi-flexible sheet 102 maybe selected based on the roll of paper products 200 the semi-flexiblesheet 102 is being designed to protect.

As such, in some embodiments, the overall width and length of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 may be determined based on the type of rollbeing protected by the apparatus. As an example. An apparatus protectingtoilet paper may be smaller in width than an apparatus protecting papertowels, steel sheets, drawing paper, or the like

In some embodiments, the width of the semi-flexible sheet 102 or themeasurement of the leading end 106, may be equal to or greater than theheight of the roll of paper product 200. As such, the semi-flexiblesheet 102 may cover the entire outer surface area of the paper product.In this way, the measurement of the leading end 106 of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 may be designed based on the height of the roll of paperproduct 200. In some embodiments, the measurement of the leading end 106may be equal to the height of the roll of paper product 200. In otherembodiments, the length of the leading end 106 may be greater than theheight of the roll of paper product 200 to provide protection to theroll of paper product 200 and/or allow for additional features as willbe explained herein. In some embodiments, the leading end 106 may be alength equal to the length of the distal end 108 of the semi-flexiblesheet 102. In other embodiments, the distal end 108 of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 may be shorter than the leading end 106.

In some embodiments, the length of the semi-flexible sheet 102 or themeasurement of the first side edge 110 or second side edge 112 betweenthe leading end 106 and the distal end 108 may also be determined basedon the circumference of the roll of paper product. A larger roll ofmaterial or a thicker material may require a larger semi-flexible sheet102. The semi-flexible sheet 102 is designed to cover the entire outsideportion of paper product and overlap itself. As such, the length of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 may be greater than the circumference of theroll of paper product at its capacity. As such the distance between theleading end 106 and distal end 108 may be designed to create a givendiameter of the cylindrical shape around a roll of paper product 200 andinclude an overlap of material. For example, where a roll of paperproduct 200 has a given circumference, the distance between the leadingend and the distal end 108 may be designed such that the circumferenceof the cylindrical shape formed by the semi-flexible sheet 102 whencollapsed is greater than the circumference of the roll of paper product200.

Furthermore, the radial collapsibility of the semi-flexible sheet 102may be determined based on the roll of paper product 200. In this way,the semi-flexible sheet 102 may have a length long enough to overlapitself upon radial compression around a roll. Furthermore, thesemi-flexible sheet 102 may, upon complete compression have an innerdiameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the core 204of the roll of paper product 200. As such, as paper product 202 isremoved from the roll of paper product 200 and the diameter of thecylindrical shape formed by the radial compression of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 is reduce, the inner surface will apply at least an amountforce or pressure on the roll of paper product 200, even after all ofthe paper product or sheet material has been dispensed.

In some embodiment, as disclosed above, while a variety of materialssuch as plastics, metals, fibers, polymers, or composites may be used tomake the semi-flexible sheet 102, other factors associated with thematerial the apparatus is surrounding may play a role in determining thematerial used to create the semi-flexible sheet 102. Such factors mightinclude protection requirements for the paper product 202, a rigidity ofthe semi-flexible sheet 102 required, an applied pressure requirementfor the roll of paper product 200, whether an attachment mechanism isincluded, whether a gripping edge is included, and/or the like. In someembodiment.

In some embodiments, one factor to consider in selecting the materialused for the semi-flexible sheet 102 is the type of product that thesemi-flexible sheet 102 will protect. As such, the semi-flexible sheet102 may be required to comprise water protection properties, dirtprotection properties, be constructed to protect from excess force,temperature protection, element protection, or the like. In someembodiments, materials may be selected based on their ability to protectthe paper product 202. For example, some materials must be protectedfrom water damage. Materials such as plastics have a high ability torepel water. Other protections may include protection from dirt or otherstaining elements, protection from radiation such as ultraviolet (UV)light, protection from abrasion or other mechanical wear, and protectionfrom punctures or cutting.

In some embodiments, one factor to consider in selecting the materialmay be the rigidity of the semi-flexible sheet 102 required. Therigidity of the material may be based on the modulus of elasticity ofthe material, the sheet strength of the material, and the like. Thesefactors will be discussed to influence the design of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 and the material from which the semi-flexible sheet 102 ismanufactured.

In some embodiments, one factor to consider in selecting the materialmay be the applied pressure requirement for the roll of paper product200. In this way, when the paper product 202 is rolled up into the rollof paper product 200, the material may apply a force causing the paperproduct 202 to maintain its shape and prevent it from unwinding. Thisforce is applied radially across the entire roll evenly based on thespring like nature of the semi-flexible sheet 102. A greater presser maybe required to prevent rolls of steel or other products from unwindingrelative to disposable paper rolls.

Furthermore, the semi-flexible sheet 102 may include a pressurerequirement that allows material from the roll to be removed through theslit or gap created. In some embodiments, the applied pressure may besuch that there is a resistance between the gap, but still allows paperproduct 202 to be removed through the gap.

FIG. 2A illustrates a front view of the apparatus with clips 105, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As illustratedin FIG. 2A, a semi-flexible sheet 102 is illustrated comprising aleading end 106, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises attachment mechanisms 124. Thefirst attachment mechanism 124 is connected to the first side edge 110of the semi-flexible sheet 102 and located proximate to the leading end106. The second attachment mechanism 124 is connected to the second sideedge 112 and located proximate to the leading end 106. In someembodiments, the attachments mechanisms 124 may be J shaped clips thatform a gap between the clips and a surface of the semi-flexible sheet102. A portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 may be positioned into thegap between the clip and semi-flexible sheet 102 such that the clipapplies pressure to a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 to inhibitmovement of the semi-flexible sheet 102 but allow repositioning of thesemi-flexible-sheet with sufficient force. Furthermore, allowing a userto remove one or more sheets of the paper product from the apparatuswithout the apparatus loosing tension around the paper product.

FIG. 2B is an expanded end view of the clips of the apparatus 107, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2Billustrates the attachment mechanism 124 attaching to a portion of thesemi-flexible sheet 102B. As such, the leading end 106 with theattachment mechanism 124 and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102Aoverlaps the distal end 108 and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet102B located proximate to the distal end 108. In this way, theattachment mechanism 124 forms a clip around the semi-flexible sheet102B, securing the semi-flexible sheet 102B in a radially collapsedposition about itself. Furthermore, a gap 145 is formed between theclipped semi-flexible sheet 102B and the semi-flexible sheet 102A suchthat paper product may be dispensed through the gap 145 created.

FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus109, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Asillustrated in FIG. 2C a semi-flexible sheet 102 comprises a leading end106 a distal end 108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112.The semi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it is capable ofbeing radially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or other shape overa roll of paper product 200. As illustrated, the roll of paper product200 includes an inner core 204 and a single sheet coming from the rollof paper product 202.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet 102 includes one or moreend covers 120 and an attachment mechanism 124. The semi-flexible sheet102 may include multiple end covers 120, where the end covers 120 areattached to and extend perpendicularly from the first side edge 110 andthe second side edge 112. The end covers 120 are located such that theycover at least a portion of the roll of paper product 220. The endcovers 120 comprise angled spaces 122 between the end covers 120 thatcreate notches and allow semi-flexible sheet 102 to be collapsed into acylindrical shape without causing the end covers 120 to bind. When thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed into a spherical shape,the notches 122 of the end cover 120 are reduced in size until theinside edges of the angled spaces 122 are in contact with one anothereither end-to-end or overlapping. Thus, the angled spaces 122 provide acompletely closed area when the semi-flexible sheet 102 is radiallycollapsed into the cylindrical shape around the roll of paper products200.

In some embodiments, the semi-flexible sheet 102 comprises one or moreattachment mechanisms 124. These attachment mechanisms 124 create a clipor hinge configured in a J shape. The attachment mechanism 124, in thisembodiment, extends from the end cover 120 along the leading edge andcreate the J shaped clip. The attachment mechanisms 124 are utilized toattach to a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 and/or one or moreend covers 120 at a point along the semi-flexible sheet 102 away fromthe leading end 106. As such, when the semi-flexible sheet 102 isradially collapsed into the cylindrical object, the attachment mechanism124 may be releasably attached to another portion of the semi-flexiblesheet or the end cover 120. As the roll of paper product 200 isdispensed, the attachment mechanisms 124 when releasably attached to theone or more end covers 122, move along the one or more end covers 120closer in proximity to the leading edge 106. When the roll of paperproducts 200 is at maximum capacity, the attachment mechanisms 124 arereleasably attached to one or more end covers 120 proximate to thedistal end 108.

FIG. 2D is an expended view of an embodiment of the apparatus 111, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As illustratedin FIG. 2D the flexible sheet 102 comprises a leading end 106 and afirst side edge 110. The semi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises endcover 120 with angled spaces 122 between each end cover 120. Referringthe FIG. 2D, the semi-flexible sheet 102 may have multiple attachmentmechanisms 124, where each attachment mechanism is attached to at leastone of the end covers 120.

FIG. 2E illustrates an expended view of the attachment mechanism of theapparatus 115, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. The attachment mechanism 124 is attached and perpendicular tothe end covers 120. While only one attachment mechanism 124 isillustrated in FIG. 2E, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciatethat multiple attachment mechanisms 124 may be present. The attachmentmechanism 124 is attached to the end cover 120 on the leading edge 106of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The expanded view illustrated in FIG. 2Eillustrates the attachment mechanism 124 on the first side edge 110 ofthe semi-flexible sheet 102. As illustrated in FIG. 2E, the attachmentmechanism 124 forms a J shape clip. The attachment mechanism 124comprises a top surface 126 that connects to and is locatedperpendicular to the end cover 120 and a front surface 128 which isconnected to and perpendicular to the first edge 126 of the attachmentmechanism 124.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism 124 may be a clip that isconnected to the first side edge 110 of the semi-flexible sheet 102 suchthat a portion of the clip is designed to apply pressure to a portion ofthe semi-flexible sheet 102 against another portion of the semi-flexiblesheet 102. In various embodiments, the clip may be made of the samematerial of the semi-flexible sheet 102 and be formed from the firstside edge 110 of the semi-flexible sheet 102.

The clip may include a top surface 126 and a front surface 128. The topsurface may connect with the first side edge 110 (as illustrated in FIG.2A-2B) or the end cover 120 (FIG. 2C-2E) of the semi-flexible sheet 102.The top surface 126 may be located in a face-to-face relation with thesemi-flexible sheet 102 such that a gap is formed between the frontsurface and the semi-flexible sheet 102. In some embodiments, the gap issized depending on the thickness of the semi-flexible sheet 102 and thepaper product held therein. In other embodiments, the gap is smallerthan the thickness of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The attachmentmechanism 124 functions as a J shaped clip that is operated by placing aportion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 between attachment mechanism 124and the semi-flexible sheet 102 when the semi-flexible sheet 102 isradially collapsed. Thus the clip retains the semi-flexible sheet 102 ina cylindrical shape of a given dimension. The portion of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 positioned in the gap of the clip may beoperatively removed at any time, thus allowing a user to insert a rollof paper product into the apparatus.

In this way, after inserting the roll of paper product, the user mayplace the semi-flexible sheet 102 in to the clip and thus retain thesemi-flexible sheet 102 in the collapsed radial position tight aroundthe roll of paper product. Furthermore, the gap created between the twoportions of the semi-flexible sheet between the attachment mechanismallows a single sheet of the paper product to be dispensed through thegap. As the paper product is dispensed and the outer diameter of theroll of paper product is reduced, the clip may be positioned such thatan inner diameter of the semi-flexible sheet 102 is equal to the outerdiameter of the roll of paper product.

In other embodiments, the attachment mechanism may include multipleattachment regions in order to operate. Examples of such a mechanismmight include, but is not limited to, zippers, magnets, adhesive,buttons, clasps, snaps, straps, hock, eyelets, Velcro®, and the like.Where the attachment mechanism requires multiple attachment regions, theattachment mechanism may comprise a first attachment region thatattaches to at least a second attachment region. The first attachmentregion may be located along an edge or end of the semi-flexible sheet.The location of the second attachment mechanism may be located at one ormore positions along the first or second edge of the semi-flexiblesheet. For example, where the attachment mechanism is a snap, the snapmay consist of at least an insertion piece located at a corner next tothe leading end, multiple receiving pieces. The insertion piece may belocated where the leading end 106 and the first side edge 110 form acorner. The multiple receiving pieces may be located along the firstside edge 110 such that the insertion piece may be connected with anyone of the multiple receiving pieces. By connecting the insertion piecewith a given receiving piece, the diameter of the cylindrical shape maybe adjusted. While attachment mechanisms are generally described aboveas being on the first side edge 110, one of ordinary sill in the artwill appreciate that the attachment mechanisms may also be the same orsimilar along the second side edge 112.

FIG. 2F illustrates a sectional view of an attachment mechanism 107,where the attachment, similar to the attachment mechanism 107 featuredin FIG. 2B. FIG. 2F illustrates the attachment mechanism 124 attachingto a multiple portions of the semi-flexible sheet 102B. As the roll ofsheet material 200 is dispensed, the semi-flexible sheet 102 radiallycontracts. As the radius of the semi-flexible sheet 102 is reduced, theleading end 106 travels tangential to the curvature of the semi-flexiblesheet 102. When enough of the sheet material 200 has been dispensed, theleading end 106 travels passed the distal end 108 for a second time andthe attachment mechanism 124 is configured to hold multiple portions ofthe either the first side end 110 or the second side end 112.

FIG. 3 illustrates a flattened front view of an embodiment of theapparatus 119, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the taper travels along thesemi-flexible sheet 102 from the leading end 106 to the distal end 108.As illustrated in FIG. 3, the taper may begin at any point located nearor at the leading end 106 and travels along the first side edge 110 andthe second side edge 112, thus forming a consistent taper along thefirst side edge 110 and the second side edge 112. The taper may besymmetric to a center line of the semi-flexible sheet 102 formed by theleading edge 106 and the distal edge 108. In other embodiments, thetaper is located on either the first side edge 110 or the second sideedge 112 but not both. In some embodiments, the taper may be small andmake the leading end 106 only slightly longer than the distal end 108.In some embodiments, the taper may be larger and make the leading end106 significantly longer than the distal end 108. The taper is thendesigned to fit into the paper product, this allowing for easy alignmentof the apparatus onto and over the roll of paper product. Furthermore,this taper allows a sheet of the paper product to be dispensed throughthe gap created by the apparatus, such that a single sheet may bedispensed at a time.

In some embodiments, a length between the first side edge and the secondside edge is greater than the circumference of a full roll of paperproduct. Therefore, the length between the first side edge 110 and thesecond side edge 112 is sufficient that a portion of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 entirely covers the roll of paper product.

FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate a semi-flexible sheet 102 that includes agripping surface 140 located along at least a portion of the leading end106. The gripping surface 140 is positioned perpendicularly to thesemi-flexible sheet 102. The gripping surface 140 may be configured toallow travel of a sheet of paper product 202 pass the gripping surface140 when pulled tangentially to the leading end 106 of the apparatus.The gripping surface 140 may be further configured to grip the sheet ofpaper product 202 when the sheet of paper product 202 is pulledperpendicularly to the leading end 106 of the apparatus. In someembodiments, the gripping surface 140 may be made of the same materialas the semi-flexible sheet 102. In some embodiments, the grippingsurface 140 may be made from a different material than the semi-flexiblesheet 102. In some embodiments, the gripping surface 140 may be strongenough or comprise the necessary serrations to cut the material on theroll.

FIG. 4A illustrates an end view of an embodiment of the apparatus 121,in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Asillustrated the roll of paper product 200 including core 204 ispositioned within the apparatus and the semi-flexible sheet 102. A sheetof the paper product 202 extends through the created gap in theapparatus between the leading end 106 and the distal end 108.

FIG. 4B illustrates an expanded cross sectional view of an embodiment ofthe apparatus comprising a gripping surface 123, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the sheet of paperproduct 202 may slide between the gap created in the semi-flexible sheet102 between the leading end 106 and the distal end 108. The sheet ofpaper product 202 may be pulled past the cutter surface 140 when pulledtangentially to the leading end 106 of the apparatus. The grippingsurface 140 may be further configured to catch and grip the sheet ofpaper product 202 when the sheet of paper product 202 is pulledperpendicularly to the leading end 106 of the apparatus.

FIG. 4C illustrates an expanded perspective view of the gripping surfaceof the apparatus 125, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the semi-flexible sheet 102comprises a gripping surface 140 on the leading end 106 of thesemi-flexible sheet 102. The gripping edge of the gripping surface 140may be serrated 142 and be located along the entire length of theleading end 106 of the semi-flexible sheet 102. When the grippingsurface 140 is serrated, the gripping surface may cut the paper product202 when the sheet of paper product 202 is pulled perpendicularly to theleading end 106 of the apparatus. The size of the serration 142 may bedetermined based on properties of the paper product 202. For example,determining the size of the serration 142 may be based on tearresistance of the paper product 202. Other material properties mightinclude tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and elongation of thepaper product 202. In addition to parameters of the paper product 202,other factors may influence the size and design of the serration 202.For example, human safety may be a contributing factor.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus127, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Theapparatus includes a semi-flexible sheet 102 with a leading end 106 adistal end 108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it is capable of beingradially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or other shape over a rollof paper product 200. As illustrated, the roll of paper product 200includes an inner core 204. In this way, the semi-flexible sheet 102provides a spring like force upon radially collapsing that provides aninward tension onto the roll of paper product 200. Thus, completelysurrounding the sides of the paper product and providing protection tothe paper products. When the semi-flexible sheet 102 is radiallycollapsed into a cylindrical shape, the leading end 106 overlays thedistal end 108 and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The leadingend 106 in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 illustrates a notch 150located on the leading end 106. The notch 150 may located at any pointalong the leading end 106. In some embodiments, the notch 150 iscentrally located along the leading end 106, as illustrated in FIG. 5.In other embodiments, the notch 150 may be located such that itinterfaces with either the first side edge 110 or the second side edge112.

The notch may be designed to allow for presentation of a sheet of paperproduct 202. The notch enables a user to grab a portion of the sheet ofpaper product 202. Where the leading end 106 of the semi-flexible sheet102 includes a gripping surface 140, the gripping surface 140 may cutthe paper product 202 such that a portion of the paper product 202 doesnot extend past the leading end 106 of the semi-flexible sheet 102.Without the location of the notch 150 on the leading end 106 of thesemi-flexible sheet 102, the entire portion of the sheet of paperproduct 202 may be covered by the semi-flexible sheet 102. With theinclusion of the notch 150 along the leading end 106 of thesemi-flexible sheet 102, a user may be able to grab the exposed portionof the paper product 202 without having to manipulate the semi-flexiblesheet to expose a sheet of paper product 202.

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus133, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6Aillustrates a semi-flexible sheet 102 in accordance with variousembodiments of the invention which includes ribs 160. The ribs arelocated along the semi-flexible sheet 102 starting at the leading end106 and ending at the distal end 108. The ribs 160 may be locatedparallel to the first side edge 110, the second side edge 112, and eachother. In some embodiments, the ribs 160 are located on one side of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 that faces the roll of paper product 200. Insome embodiments, the ribs 160 may be located as to prevent axialmovement of the roll of paper product 200 when the semi-flexible sheet102 is radially collapsed forming the cylindrical shape but allow asheet of paper product 202 to be dispensed when force is applied on thepaper product 202. The ribs 160 may also assist in radially collapsingthe semi-flexible sheet 102.

FIG. 6B illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of theapparatus comprising ribs 135, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. As illustrated, the ribs 160 may be parallel to thefirst side edge 110 and the second side edge 112. In some embodiments,the ribs 160 may not be parallel to the first side edge 110 and thesecond side edge 112. The ribs 160 may extend on one or both sides ofthe semi-flexible sheet 102. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6Bthe ribs 160 extend into both a top and bottom of the semi-flexiblesheet 102.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus 151, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated,a semi-flexible sheet 102 is included. The semi-flexible sheet 102comprises a leading end 106, a distal end 108, a first side edge 110,and a second side edge 112. The semi-flexible sheet 102 is radiallycollapsible into a cylindrical shape over a roll of paper product 200.When the semi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed into acylindrical shape, the leading end 106 overlays the distal end 108 and aportion of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The leading end 106, the distalend 108, and the portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 form a gap thatallows a portion of the paper product 202 to be positioned between theleading end and the distal end 108. The length of the leading end 106 isgreater than the length of the distal end 108 of the semi-flexible sheet102, thus resulting in a taper of at least a portion of the first sideedge 110 and the second side edge 112 of the semi-flexible sheet 102.

The semi-flexible sheet 102 comprises a gripping surface 140 with aserrated edge 142 located at least partially along the leading end 106.The gripping surface 140 allows dispensing of the roll of paper product200 when force is applied to the paper product 202 tangentially to theroll of paper product 202. The gripping surface 140 further cuts thepaper product 202 when the paper product 202 is pulled perpendicularlyto the gripping surface. The semi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises anotch 160 located centrally along the leading end 106. The notch 160reveals a portion of the paper product 202 to aid in grabbing the paperproduct 202. The semi-flexible sheet further comprises multipleattachment mechanisms 124. One of the attachment mechanisms 124 isconnected to the first side edge 110 and located proximately to theleading end 106 of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The other attachmentmechanism 124 is connected to the second side edge 112, and is locatedproximately to the leading end 106 of the semi-flexible sheet 102. Theattachment mechanisms 124 form a gap with a surface of the semi-flexiblesheet 102 which retain another portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102,thus causing the semi-flexible sheet 102 to remain in the cylindricalshape. The attachment mechanisms 124 further allow the semi-flexiblesheet 102 to be adjusted, thus changing a diameter of the cylindricalshape of the semi-flexible sheet 102.

The semi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises ribs 160 located on atleast one surface of the semi-flexible sheet, where the ribs 160 aid thesemi-flexible 102 sheet in radially collapsing into the cylindricalshape. Additionally, the ribs 160 inhibit axial movement of the roll ofpaper product 200, while allowing the roll of paper product 200 to bedispensed.

FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus153, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 illustrated comprises a leading end 106, adistal end 108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge 112. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsible into a cylindrical shapeover a roll of paper product 200 comprising a core 204.

The semi-flexible sheet 102 comprises a gripping surface 140 with aserrated edge 142 located at least partially along the leading end 106.The semi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises a notch 160 locatedcentrally along the leading end 106. The notch 160 reveals a portion ofthe paper product 202 to aid in grabbing the paper product 202.

The semi-flexible sheet 102 further comprises multiple end covers 120.One of the end covers 120 is connected perpendicularly to first sideedge 110 of the semi-flexible sheet 102. The other end cover 120 isconnected perpendicularly to the second side edge 112 of thesemi-flexible sheet 102. The end covers 120 are positioned such thatwhen the semi-flexible sheet 102, when radially collapsed over the rollof paper product 200 cover at least a portion of the roll of paperproduct 200. Thus providing protection to the ends of the paper product200.

The end covers 120 comprise multiple attachment mechanisms 124. Theattachment mechanisms 124 are connected to the end covers 120 and form agap with a surface of the end covers 120. The gaps of the end covers 120accept another portion of the end covers 120 and retain thesemi-flexible sheet 102 in a cylindrical shape. The attachmentmechanisms 124 further allow the semi-flexible sheet 102 to be adjusted,thus changing a diameter of the cylindrical shape of the semi-flexiblesheet 102. The end covers 120 further comprise angled apertures 122 thatallow the semi-flexible sheet 102 to be collapsed into a cylindricalshape without causing the end covers 120 to bind. When the semi-flexiblesheet 102 is radially collapsed into a cylindrical shape, the angledapertures 122 are in contact with one another. Thus, the angledapertures 122 are completely closed when the semi-flexible sheet 102 isradially collapsed into the cylindrical shape. The semi-flexible sheet102 further comprises ribs 160 located on at least one surface of thesemi-flexible sheet, where the ribs 160 aid the semi-flexible 102 sheetin radially collapsing into the cylindrical shape. Additionally, theribs 160 inhibit axial movement of the roll of paper product 200, whileallowing the roll of paper product 200 to be dispensed.

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatus131, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Theapparatus illustrated includes a semi-flexible sheet 102 with a leadingend 106 a distal end 108, a first side edge 110, and a second side edge112. The semi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it is capableof being radially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or other shapeover a roll of paper product 200. As illustrated, the roll of paperproduct 200 includes an inner core 204. When the semi-flexible sheet 102is radially collapsed into a cylindrical shape, the leading end 106overlays the distal end 108 and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet102. The semi-flexible sheet 102 may include markings 152 within areference notch 150, indicating the capacity of the roll of paperproduct 200. As paper product 202 is removed, the cylindrical shape madeby the semi-flexible sheet 102 reduces in diameter and the distil edge108 travels radially with the cylindrical shape. The markings 152indicating the capacity of the paper product 202 may be positioned suchthat the distil edge 108 indicates the actual capacity of the paperproduct 202.

FIG. 8B is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of theapparatus 129, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As illustrated, the semi-flexible sheet 102 with referencenotch 150 is illustrated. In this way, when the leading end 106 and thedistal end 108 compress radially upon the use of one or more sheets ofmaterial. The semi-flexible sheet 102 may include markings 152 thatillustrate, upon use, the amount of material remaining on the roll ofmaterial.

FIG. 9A-9B illustrate an apparatus 139 operating in conjunction with aholder 224. FIG. 9A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment ofthe apparatus supported by a holder 139, in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention. The core of the paper product allowfor the passage of a holder 224 of some type.

FIG. 9B illustrates perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder 141, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention

In yet other embodiments of the invention, besides providing protectionto the roll of sheet material 200, the invention increases portabilityof the roll of sheet material 200 when the semi-flexible sheet 102 isradially collapsed over the roll of sheet material 200. When thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed over the roll of sheetmaterial 200, the semi-flexible sheet 102 applies a constant pressureover the roll of sheet material 200, thus preventing the roll of sheetmaterial 200 from unwinding.

FIG. 10A-10G illustrate an apparatus including an end cap. FIG. 10Aillustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the apparatus includingend caps 137, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. The apparatus comprises a semi-flexible sheet 102 with aleading end 106, a distal end, a first side edge 110, and a second sideedge 112. The semi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it iscapable of being radially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or othershape over a roll of paper product 200. The apparatus illustrated inFIG. 10A illustrates end caps for covering the open end of thesemi-flexible sheet 102 when it is radially collapsed. The semi-flexiblesheet 120 may be designed to accept a top end cap 170A and/or a bottomend cap 170B, as illustrated in FIG. 10A. Each of the top end cap 170Aand the bottom end cap 170B may by formed into a cylinder with oneclosed end, wherein each the top end cap 170A comprises a side wall 174,a base piece 175, and an aperture 172. The cylinder of the caps may beplaced over one of the ends of the cylindrical shape formed by thesemi-flexible sheet 102, thus retaining the semi-flexible sheet 102 at amaximum diameter.

FIG. 10B illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the endcap of the apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As illustrated in FIG. 10B the bottom end cap 170 includes aside wall 174 and an aperture 172. The end cap 170, in some embodimentsmay be the top end cap 170A. In other embodiments, the end cap 170 maybe the bottom end cap 170B. The inner surface of the side wall 174 ofthe end cap 170 contacts the semi-flexible sheet 102 and an insidesurface of the base piece 175 of the end cap 170 contacts either thefirst side edge 110 or the second side edge 112 of the semi-flexiblesheet 102.

FIG. 10C illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the endcap of the apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. As illustrated in FIG. 10C, the end cap 170 may furtherinclude an inner wall 176 that is located concentric inside to the sidewall 174, wherein the inner wall 176 forms a cylinder that is attachedto the base piece 175. The inner wall 176 and the side wall 174 form agap for allowing a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102 to be insertedinto the gap, such that an inner surface of the cylinder formed by thesemi-flexible sheet 102 contacts an outer surface of the inner wall 176.The gap may be designed to fit the semi-flexible sheet 102 when thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed into a cylindrical shape.Thus when the end cap 170 is placed on the cylindrical shape formed bythe semi-flexible sheet 102, the semi-flexible sheet 102 is retained ata constant diameter. In some embodiments, the height of the inner wall176 may be longer than the distance of the side wall 174. The supportsurface 177 of the inner wall 176 may contact the roll of paper product200 thus positioning the roll of paper product at a given distance fromthe end of the side wall 174 of the cap 170. In such a configuration,when dispensing the paper product, the paper product will not come incontact with the side wall 174 of the end cap 170.

FIG. 10D illustrates a cross sectional view of an embodiment of the endcap of the apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. With reference to FIG. 10D, the end cap 170 may furtherinclude a core support 178. The core support may be located concentricto the side wall 174 and form a cylinder. When the end cap 170 is placedon the cylindrical shape formed by the semi-flexible sheet 102, an outersurface of the core support 178 provides support to the core 204 of theroll of paper product 200.

FIG. 10E illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of theapparatus supported by a holder 171, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. In this way, the semi-flexible sheet 102includes end caps 170. The end cap 170 may include an aperture. Theaperture 172 passes through the entirety of the base 175 of the end cap170. The aperture 172 may be designed in a circular configuration, wherethe diameter of the aperture 172 is based on a diameter of a core of theroll of paper product and sheets of paper product 202 exposed therefrom.The core of the paper product allow for the passage of a holder 224 ofsome type. In some embodiments, the diameter of the aperture 172 of theend cap 170 may be at least equal to or larger than the diameter of thecore of the paper product. The aperture 172 of the end cap 170, inconjunction with the core of the roll of paper product, allows passageof a holder 224 and/or a holder 224 with a holder base 222.

FIG. 10F illustrates perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatussupported by a holder 173, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. Similar to above with respect to FIG. 10E, thesemi-flexible sheet 102 includes end caps 170 the end caps 170 containapertures 172 that allow a holder 234/232 to pass through. In this way,a sheet of paper product 202 may be received via the gap in a horizontalposition mounted on a holder 234/232.

FIG. 10G illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of theapparatus supported by a holder 143, in accordance with one embodimentof the present invention. In some embodiments, at least one of the caps170 may be formed to provide support for the semi-flexible sheet 102such that the cylindrical shape formed by the semi-flexible sheet 102may be positioned vertically. The cap 170 may further comprise a supportsurface 180 which provide stability to the semi-flexible sheet 102 whenit is collapsed into a cylindrical shape.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the apparatusincluding a separator 190, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. The apparatus comprises a semi-flexible sheet 102with multiple leading ends 106A/106B, a distal end 108, a first sideedge 110, and a second side edge 112. The multiple leadings ends106A/106B are separated by a separator 190 the is located on thesemi-flexible sheet 102 such that the separator 190 forms two sub sheets192A/192B out of a portion of the semi-flexible sheet 102. Thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is manufactured such that it is capable of beingradially collapsible into a cylindrical shape or other shape overmultiple rolls of paper product 200. The two sub sheets are individuallycapable of radially collapsing over an associated roll of paper product200. It should be noted that the semi-flexible sheet 102 may includemultiple separators that each form sub sheets that are capable ofradially collapsing over multiple rolls of paper products.

In yet other embodiments of the invention, besides providing protectionto the roll of sheet material 200, the invention increases portabilityof the roll of sheet material 200 when the semi-flexible sheet 102 isradially collapsed over the roll of sheet material 200. When thesemi-flexible sheet 102 is radially collapsed over the roll of sheetmaterial 200, the semi-flexible sheet 102 applies a constant pressureover the roll of sheet material 200, thus preventing the roll of sheetmaterial 200 from unwinding.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in theaccompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments aremerely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, andthat this invention not be limited to the specific constructions andarrangements shown and described, since various other changes,combinations, omissions, modifications and substitutions, in addition tothose set forth in the above paragraphs are possible. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that various adaptations and modifications ofthe just described embodiments can be configured without departing fromthe scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is to be understoodthat, within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may bepracticed other than as specifically described herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for protecting and dispensing sheetmaterial, the apparatus comprising a semi-flexible sheet having: aleading end and a distal end, wherein the semi-flexible sheet ispartially tapered in width from the leading end to the distal end; afirst side edge and a second side edge, wherein the first side edge andthe second side edge comprise attachment means adjacent to the leadingend for releasably attaching a portion of the semi-flexible sheet,wherein the semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsible upon a roll ofsheet material such that the first side edge and the second side edgeform a cylindrical shape about the roll of sheet material, wherein uponradially collapsing upon the roll of sheet material the leading endoverlays the distal end and a portion of the semi-flexible sheet suchthat a portion of the roll of sheet material is compressed between theoverlaid leading end and distal end; the apparatus further comprising afirst end cap operatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet andlocated at the first side edge, wherein the first end cap covers atleast a portion of the roll of sheet material, and a second end capoperatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet and located at thesecond side edge, wherein the second end cap covers at least a portionof the roll of sheet material.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein theattachment means comprises a J shaped clip, wherein one clip isconnected to the first side edge proximate to the leading end and asecond clip is connected to the second side edge proximate to theleading end, wherein the clips are directed inward towards thesemi-flexible sheet to receive and releasably attached the first sideedge and the second side edge proximate to the distal end.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein a height of the leading end of thesemi-flexible sheet is at least equal to or greater than a height of theroll of sheet material, and wherein the height of the distal end is atleast equal to or less than the height of the leading end.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the semi-flexible sheet further comprisesat a first end cover attached perpendicularly to the first side edge anda second end cover attached perpendicularly to the second side edge,wherein the first and second end cover covers at least a portion of anend of a roll of sheet material, wherein the first and second end covercomprises angled spaces configured to prevent the end cover from bindingwhen the semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the semi-flexible sheet further comprises ribs that arepositioned on at least one surface of the semi-flexible sheet, whereinthe ribs are positioned to inhibit axial travel of the roll of sheetmaterial and allow the sheet material to be dispensed.
 6. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the length of the semi-flexible sheet from thedistal end to the leading end is greater than a circumference of theroll of sheet material.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thesemi-flexible sheet comprises a plastic material.
 8. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the semi-flexible sheet further comprises a notchlocated on the leading end, wherein the notch allows for grasping of thesheet material compressed between the overlay created by the leading endand the distal end, and wherein when the semi-flexible sheet is radiallycollapsed, the notch reveals the sheet material.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the leading end of the semi-flexible sheet furthercomprises a gripping surface directed towards the sheet material whenthe semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed, wherein the grippingsurface is a series of serrations.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, whereinthe gripping surface allows passage of the sheet material past thegripping edge when force is applied to the sheet material perpendicularto a front surface of the leading end, and wherein the gripping surfacegrips the sheet material when force is applied to the sheet materialperpendicular to the leading end.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe sheet material is a disposable paper product.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the apparatus provides environmental protection to theroll of sheet material, wherein environmental protection comprises atleast moisture protection, dust protection, and abrasion protection. 13.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first end cap further comprises anaperture concentrically located on the first end cap, wherein a diameterof the aperture permits passage of a holder for the roll of sheetmaterial.
 14. An apparatus for protecting and dispensing sheet materialcomprising a semi-flexible sheet having: a leading end and a distal end,wherein the leading end of the semi-flexible sheet further comprises anotch located along a center of the leading end; a first side edge and asecond side edge, wherein the semi-flexible sheet is radiallycollapsible upon a roll of sheet material such that the first side edgeand the second side edge form a cylindrical shape about the roll ofsheet material, wherein upon radially collapsing upon the roll of sheetmaterial the leading end overlays the distal end and a portion of thesemi-flexible sheet such that a portion of the roll of sheet material iscompressed between the overlaid leading end and distal end, wherein whenthe semi-flexible sheet is radially collapsed, the notch reveals thesheet material and allows for grasping of sheet material; a first endcap operatively connected to the semi-flexible sheet and located at thefirst side edge, wherein the first end cap covers at least a portion ofthe roll of sheet material, and a second end cap operatively connectedto the semi-flexible sheet and located at the second side edge, whereinthe second end cap covers at least a portion of the roll of sheetmaterial; and a gripping surface located along at least a portion of theleading end, wherein the gripping surface is configured to allow travelof the sheet material when pulled tangentially to the leading endwithout damaging the sheet material, and wherein the gripping surface isconfigured to grip the material when pulled perpendicularly to theleading end.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the first side edgeand the second side edge comprise attachment means adjacent to theleading end for releasably attaching a portion of the semi-flexiblesheet.
 16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the sheet material is adisposable paper product.
 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein theleading end of the semi-flexible sheet further comprises a top surface,a bottom surface, and a front surface, wherein the top surfaceintegrates into the semi-flexible sheet, wherein the front surfacedefines the leading end of the semi-flexible sheet, and wherein thebottom surface comprises the gripping surface that collapses upon aportion of the semi-flexible sheet when radially collapsed, wherein thegripping surface is a series of semi-ridged plastic serrations.
 18. Theapparatus of claim 14, wherein the semi-flexible sheet is made of aplastic material.
 19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the apparatusprovides environmental protection to the roll of sheet material, whereinenvironmental protection comprises at least moisture protection, dustprotection, and abrasion protection.
 20. The apparatus of claim 14,wherein the semi-flexible sheet further comprises at a first end coverattached perpendicularly to the first side edge and a second end coverattached perpendicularly to the second side edge, wherein the first andsecond end cover covers at least a portion of an end of a roll of sheetmaterial, wherein the first and second end cover comprises angled spacesconfigured to prevent the end cover from binding when the semi-flexiblesheet is radially collapsed.